The Trump administration plans to provide federal immigration agents with gloves that can deliver electric shocks during physical confrontations. This follows a procurement notice from the Department of Homeland Security (DHS).
The device, called the G.L.O.V.E. (Generated Low Output Voltage Emitter), is made by Compliant Technologies LLC in Kentucky. It is marketed as a tool for officers to gain control over resistant individuals during close encounters.
Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) plans to spend up to $20 million to acquire thousands of these devices for Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) and Enforcement and Removal Operations (ERO) personnel. Deliveries are expected by March 2027.
Newsweek reached out to DHS for comment via email outside regular hours.
What Is the G.L.O.V.E. GT-5?
Compliant Technologies describes the G.L.O.V.E. as a “conductive distraction and de-escalation device.” It functions like a standard patrol glove until activated.
The glove is designed for use by law enforcement, corrections, security, military, and emergency medical personnel. Officers activate it using a switch on the glove, allowing it to deliver an electrical stimulus to an individual’s skin. This stimulus aims to distract or interrupt muscle movement to encourage compliance.
The company claims compliance is usually achieved in seconds without leaving lasting marks.
Manufacturers advise that no more than two gloves should be used simultaneously and generally for no more than 15 seconds unless needed.
The device needs direct skin contact and is ineffective through clothing or hair.
Manufacturer’s Warnings
The manufacturer cautions against using the glove as punishment or solely in response to verbal noncompliance. It also advises against deploying the device on higher-risk individuals, such as children, pregnant women, the elderly, and disabled people.
This story is developing, with more information to follow.
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